As we approach the midway point through the 2014 season, the Rattlers have been productive but inconsistent. They currently stand at 4-3 which puts them in third place overall of the MLL.
In addition Rochester also enters their next match up against the Outlaws, whom they previously lost to this season 14-8 on May 17, and Denver stands in first place having only lost one game in the past two seasons (practically).
To put the “cherry on top” Rochester also enters after a loss of 18-13 to the Ohio Machine.
John Ortolani has faced off almost 200 times already this season, winning 100 of 194 (.515) and has also recorded one assist.
Ortolani needs to win more draws. Though .515 is decent, to create offensive momentum in this league calls for more fast breaks, achieved on turnovers and face offs. The midfield unit needs to play more as a unit to produce progress for the offense.
Justin Turri leads the offense statistically with 18 points so far this season, stemming from 9 goals, 1 two-point goal, and 8 assists. Kevin Leveille has 15 points, Jordan MacIntosh 13 and Dave Lawson 12. Following them are 14 other roster members who have, at the least, recorded one point this season.
Statistically, there are numerous goals and much fewer assists. By finding new ways of feeding and team-working (no PUNs intended), they may be able to capitalize on more opportunities, especially in an upcoming match such as the Outlaws.
Plus, other than Mike Manley and Jordan Wolf, the multiples of goals recorded by other offensive members do not reflect high shot percentages. Manley is in the forties (.455) and Wolf is at .500.
John Galloway has a save percentage of .551, saving 102 balls and allowing 83 goals.
The Rochester defense, to my initial surprise, produces positive results. They are all over ground balls having recovered 226 as a team so far this season. However, Galloway is not playing his “A+” game. I KNOW he can perform to a higher standard and I also understand every player has their slumps. He’ll need to work through this one quicker in order to see results in time for Rochester to have a postseason presence and impact.
Look for Rochester to continue their offense the way they have been, but they’ll probably be experimenting a little more with feeding formations. They’ll try to pass the ball around the cage more, which may result in turnovers. The defense will continue their uphill battles, and Ortolani (overall) is doing well at the draw.
